Changing leaves, fresh air and pumpkins. When the season turns into the months of October and November, the aisles of the grocery store change too – now with everything from pumpkin bread to pumpkin-shaped biscuits. In addition to the taste of pumpkins, Garden Valley Farmers Market owner Joshua Reading said the orange plants also have nutritional benefits.
To better understand the nutritional benefits of pumpkins, Reading describes that pumpkins are high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, which he knows from his experience growing and selling the fruit to customers every year. Reading said the Farmers Market website posted articles about how customers can cook with pumpkins and how to incorporate them into their diet to experience the benefits.
“I always tell customers to use all of the pumpkin because each part has its own benefits, especially the seeds, to get those healthy fats and omega-3s,” Readling said.
Reading also said that pumpkins are high in vitamins C and A, especially when compared to other fall fruits on the market such as potatoes and corn.
“The vitamin C in pumpkins is a great way to boost the immune system, especially with COVID and flu,” Reading said. “Vitamin A helps in glowing skin and hair growth, which is important to get in your food intake.”
Sophomore Amelia Doll said her simple way of using pumpkin to reap its nutritional benefits, such as boosting her immune system in college and getting glowing skin
“I enjoy making my own homemade pumpkin bread and muffins in my kitchen,” said Doll. “It is really easy to strengthen my immune system and get that perfect glowing complexion.”
Reading said the high volume of fiber in pumpkins is nutritionally beneficial, especially for college students.
“I find myself sometimes forgetting about fiber and its importance as a dietary supplement,” Reading said. “It is able to keep our intestines healthy and improve blood sugar levels.”
Reading said that getting these essential vitamins and minerals can be difficult sometimes when you are a college student.
“In college, it’s hard to figure out what’s lacking in your diet,” Reading said. “Buying seasonal fruits like pumpkins is a great way to get those essential nutrients to boost energy and have a more filling meal.”
Like Doll, Junior Sophie Lizmi said she enjoys adding pumpkin to her meals not only for the taste but also for the nutritional benefits.
“I always have pumpkin seeds in my pantry, even when it’s not autumn,” says Lizmi. “They’re a quick snack to keep me full and have so many nutritional benefits.”
Reading said some ways he is including pumpkin to take advantage of these fall vegetable and experience the delicious taste of these fall vegetable are by making pumpkin bread and butter, and eating the seeds.
